6 Things People Don’t Know About Source Code (But Probably Should
What comes to mind when you think about source code? If you’re like many non-tech folks, you might envision lines of mysterious symbols and commands.
Source code in the real world is far from glamorous but far more significant than the way it’s often depicted on the big screen or small screen.
It’s the human-readable set of instructions that tells a computer program what to do.
Without source code, the programs you run, the websites you visit, and even the programs controlling your vehicles and household appliances would only exist in the realm of science fiction.
Below are six things that people do not know about source code — but probably should.
- Source Code Is the Software Blueprint
Think of source code as the blueprint of a building. It helps developers devise how a program will run.
If an organization has software but no source code, it’s most likely to be burdened with limitations or defects that it cannot avoid unless it goes back to the original author. For these and other reasons, it makes sense to retain the services of a source code expert. It can be a way to learn more about source code assets and how to safeguard them.
- Having Software Is Not Equivalent to Having the Source Code
When you purchase or lease software, you’re really only purchasing the right to use it.
You don’t buy the source code. For businesses, this can make a big difference. Take the example of hiring a programmer to develop specialized software for your business. If your contract doesn’t provide you with control of the source code, the programmer might own the rights. That is, if you later wish to switch programmers, modify the software, or sell your company, legal or financial problems may ensue since your business won’t own the source code.
- Source Code Can Contain Intellectual Property
Source code is usually copyrighted, occasionally even patented or maintained as a trade secret. For organizations, this puts source code in an asset category and a liability category.
On the one hand, source code can be your competitive advantage. On the other hand, you may face legal issues if your programmers unknowingly use copyrighted or open-source code in the wrong way.
- Source Code Quality Matters (A Lot)
Not all source code is equal. Two programs can do the same thing at their surface level, but one might have beautiful, clean code, and the other might be a hackwork nightmare. Bad source code could be harder to maintain, more likely to contain bugs, and more expensive to get up to speed on.
If you want an expert to review source code, that’s one service source code experts offer. Going this route can ensure the quality of your source code is worth preserving.
- Source Code Should Be Maintained Over Time
Technology does not stand still, and new code today can become redundant tomorrow. Programming languages advance, operating systems get modified, and bugs seep in.
This means that companies must manage their source code as a living entity.
Maintenance and documentation must be done every now and then. Even the prettiest code can degrade over time or become a liability if hosted negligently.
- Source Code Accessibility Can Impact Business Value
If you ever sell your company, clean rights and access to your source code can be a significant valuation driver. You need to convince buyers that the software that supports your company won’t collapse the moment there’s a transfer of ownership.
Similarly, investors will want to know the extent to which a company owns its foundational technology. If you don’t own or control the source code, that’s a red flag that can undervalue your business.
Source code is likely something you don’t even think about at all unless you happen to be a computer programmer. However, the reality is that it affects businesses, business owners, and even customers.
Knowing what source code is, who owns it, and where it’s kept can safeguard against costly legal wars that cost you money and jeopardize your business.
